Table of Content

Saint Joseph Elementary School

509 Pavonia Avenue

Jersey City, New Jersey 07306

201-653-0128

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Parent Signature (Mother)________________________________________

(Father)________________________________________

Guardian Signature ________________________________________

Child/Children Signature ________________________________________

Non-Discrimination Policy

Saint Joseph School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Saint Joseph School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of it's educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, as well as athletic and other school-administered programs.

This handbook exists to foster the efficient operation of Saint Joseph School. To meet this objective, the school administration is given flexibility and the ability to exercise discretion In appropriate circumstances, the Principal has discretion to take actions on other than those specified in the Handbook. This handbook is not intended and should not be considered to create any additional rights for students or parents /guardians.

Admendments to Handbook

This handbook is subject to change at any time when determined to be necessary by the Archdiocese of Newark and or the School Administration. If changes are made to the handbook, parent/ guardians will be notified as soon as possible.

We at Saint Joseph draw our strength as a community from a long tradition of value-oriented Catholic education based on the reality and teaching of Jesus Christ.

We exist in the world with the particular difficulties of our time. We embrace the challenges of our day and see as our purpose the preparation of our students spiritually, intellectually, socially and physically for the future.

The Saint Joseph school community Is committed to it's vocation as Catholic educators to lead students to a greater understanding of the Catholic values of faith, hope, love, justice and forgiveness. Our shared efforts are directed toward creating a rich environment that considers development of the whole person by giving diverse opportunities that can lead to Independence and self-confidence.

Our goal Is to enable our students to become a productive and Influential part of society in the twenty-first century. Cognizant of the approach of the now millennium. We further recognize our purpose to encourage the development of attitudes and skills that are necessary to meet the challenge of change In one's life, society, and the world.

Our complex, rapidly changing technological society, will require more than basic knowledge and recitation of facts. We believe our students will need critical thinking skills with which to build on rather than Information that may become outdated in the future. Therefore, our curriculum stimulates their Intellectual capabilities of curiosity, reasoning, questioning, and creativity.

To achieve In this fast-paced society, our students must have a strong sense of self-esteem and value their own humanity above any technology. At the core of this strong sense of self is a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. The faculty encourages the formation of this relationship by promoting the students active participation In daily prayer, scripture reading and catechesis as well as celebrations through a variety of programs. This enables students to better appreciate the teachings of Jesus Christ, enhances their faith and forms the basis for future moral and spiritual behavior.

The Mission of Saint Joseph School Is to feed our students knowledge, clothe them with sensitivity for others, and offer them moral and spiritual guidance.

As a community teachers, administrators,. parents, priests, and staff work together to cultivate our students' God given talents. We help students develop Positive attributes, so as to enhance their ability to participate In and render service to their family, school, church, and community.

Our aim Is to develop well-rounded, confident, responsible students, who as adults will be prepared to adopt to an ever-changing world, guided by Jesus Christ and strong christian values.

• Provide an atmosphere that stimulates the growth of knowledge of Catholic doctrine and morality.

• Develop attitudes of social cooperation and moral responsibility through interpersonal relations and Christian Service.

• Stimulate the intellect and creative process with instruction and instructional materials that are up to date and challenging.

• Nuture a personal relationship with God by practicing our faith, listening to God's word, providing systematic catechesis and living as Jesus teaches.

Above all our mission at Saint Joseph School Is to have God be known and loved by our students, so that they may be a reflection of this love and a positive force in the world.

1 . To help our students see their church as a dynamic force that guides them in every area of their lives.

2. To encourage our students to use their God-given gift and talents within their family, school, church, and community.

3. To provide a rich educational experience that will encourage creative and independent thought.

4. To emphasize basic communication skills In reading. writing, speaking, and listening.

5. To provide our students with a sense of security through openness to their opinions and sensitivity to their needs.

6. To establish an atmosphere that stimulates the growth of knowledge of Catholic doctrine and morality.

7. To nurture personal relationships with God by practicing our faith, listening and responding to God's word, and living as Jesus teaches.

8. To allow our students to progress at their own rate according to their ability and still provide them with challenges.

9. To provide an environment that encourages socialization and group Interaction.

10. To develop attitudes of social cooperation and moral responsibility through Inter-personal relations and Christian service.

11. To foster an atmosphere of respect for the Individual by providing activities that are developmentally appropriate so as to challenge the child without Inviting failure.

12. To stimulate the Intellect as well as the creative process thus enhancing our students' ability to have a positive Impact on the future world.

Telephone 'Numbers

School Office 653-0128

Rectory Office 653-0392

Order of the School Day

8:00 Arrival time in school yard

8:05 Morning bell for beginning classes

12:00 Dismissal for Lunch

12:45 Afternoon Session

2:30 Dismissal from School

The School's responsibility for supervision of students begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 2:30p.m. For children properly enrolled in the School's afterschool program, the School's responsibility for supervision begins at 2:30 p.m. and ends at 5:30 p.m.

Grades Pre-K to 8 will assemble in the school yard on Pavonia Avenue. On rainy or snowy days the students will come directly Into the school at the above mentioned times and not before.

General Admission Policy

Technical Requirements

Saint Joseph School admits students when there is space available, on a first-come, first-serve basis. It is the policy of the Parish that a newly registered family must be a parishioner for one year prior to being given parishioner tuition status.

Age

A birth certificate must be submitted for proof of age.

Children entering Pre-Kindergarten must be four years of age on or before September 30.

Children entering Kindergarten must be five years of age on or before September 30.

Children entering First grade must be six years of age on or before September 30.

Immunization Requirements

DTP: a minimum of four doses.

OPV: a minimum of three doses, provided at least one dose is given on or after

the fourth birthday.

Measles Vaccine: one dose administered on or after the first birthday.

Mumps Vaccine: one dose administered on or after the first birthday; children who were

administered before the first birthday are to be reimmunized.

Catholic Applicants

A Baptismal Certificate and verification of reception of any additional sacraments is required.

Credentials Transfer Students

In addition to all the above Items the following are required:

The school should be informed by telephone no later than 9:00 If a child is expected to be absent. Should you wish to call earlier please leave a message on the answering machine. This regulation also applies to students who miss an afternoon session. Please call by 1:00p.m. for the afternoon session. If no call Is received, the school Secretary will make a reasonable effort to reach a parent/guardian by phone to verify the legitimacy of the absence. These procedures represent a mutual effort to account for the presence of the student during school hours. Please make every effort to cooperate in this matter.

When the child returns to school, s/he must present to the Teacher, a written excuse from a Parent/guardian stating the student's name together with the dates and reason for the absence. An absence of four consecutive days requires a doctor's note.

Students who have serious medical problems and will be unable to attend school for six weeks or more can qualify for home Instruction as provided by the Jersey City Board of Education. Parents are to contact the Principal immediately If such an emergency occurs so that an application can be processed and the necessary medical Information be sent to the Board of Education.

If the child must leave school for an appointment, or If s/he becomes III In school, s1he must be picked up by an adult member of the family. No child can leave the building unaccompanied by an authorized adult. This Is Now Jersey State law.

PROLONGED ABSENCE OR GREAT IRREGULARITY WILL BE REPORTED TO TRUANT OFFICALS.

Students who are away on family trips during school time are responsible for making up missed work when they return to school. Missed tests and projects are also to be made up by the student.

It Is poor training If a child does not report to school at the proper time, It also prevents the Teacher and other students from starting on time there by losing valuable teaching/learning time.

A student Is considered tardy if s/he is not on line by the first bell. Lateness without sufficient cause will not be tolerated. Student tardiness is recorded. Habitual tardiness will cause the student to make up time which Is lost after school.

Emergency School Closing - Early Dismissal

Parents / Guardians will be notified of any early dismissal through the monthly calendar. In the event of school closing due to Inclement weather or some other emergency, the phone relay will be put into effect to notify the parent. We must have your current phone number at all times for this system to work properly.

Policy on Administration of Medication

Saint Joseph School strongly discourages the administration of either prescription or non -prescription medication in school or on field trips. However, If It Is absolutely essential that a student receive medication while under School supervision, the following procedures apply:

1. A parent/guardian should come to school and personally administer the medication.

Students will be permitted to self-administer medication only for life threatening illnesses or conditions. The parent/guardian must schedule a conference with the School Nurse to discuss in detail the need for medication. The parent/guardian and the student's physician must complete and sign an "Authorization for Self -Administration of Medication In School" form. This form is available from the school.

Health

Saint Joseph School follows the Archdiocesan policy regarding any AIDS related cases. We also follow the Archdiocesan policy with regard to pregnancy cases. We follow New Jersey State and Archdiocesan policy concerning communicable diseases.

Make up is not permitted at all. No student, boy or girl may wear any type of extreme hair cut or hair style. Hair cuts and hair styles are to be neat and appropriate for school. Excessive jewelry, especially earrings below the ear lobe, are unacceptable. Earrings may not be worn during Gym class. No student may wear large rings on their fingers at any time. The formation of proper dress, grooming and hygiene habits are important to a student's future success.

On Gym days students are to wear sneakers and Saint Joseph School sweatsuits. No other attire will be permitted.

Uniforms can be purchased from:

Sneakers

Sweat pants

Sweat shirt

Blue Plaid Jumper

White or powder blue uniform blouse

Navy knee socks or navy tights

Navy or black rubber soled and heeled shoes

Navy blue sweater or Saint Joseph School sweat shirt

Grades 6-8

Navy Weskit

Plaid skirt

White or powder blue uniform blouse

Navy knee socks or navy tights

Navy or black rubber soled and heeled shoes

Navy blue sweater or Saint Joseph School sweat shirt

No dangling earrings

Saint Joseph uniform shirt

Navy pants

Navy or black rubber soled and heeled shoes

Navy blue sweater or Saint Joseph School sweat shirt

The Saint Joseph Parish School community encourages an atmosphere conducive to learning not only academic skills but Christian virtues as well - Mutual respect and cooperation are essential to this learning environment. Students are expected to act with courtesy and respect toward one another and toward all members of the staff. They must take seriously their obligation to develop lifetime habits of self-control and concern for the well-being of others. The Saint Joseph community works closely with the family to help students learn to live the qualities of responsible behavior and good citizenship.

A student who chooses to disrupt the good order of the School or violate a policy or regulation will have to accept the consequence of that Irresponsible choice. Appropriate discipline Is within the discretion of the Principal. Accountability for uncooperative, disruptive or unsafe behavior may take any of the following forms: misconduct referrals or warnings; punishment assignments; denial of privileges; detention; In school suspension; out-of-school suspension; or expulsion.

Actions which violate the low, threaten or cause harm to other students or staff members, disrupts or impede the welfare or progress of the school community, or bring discredit to the school will not be tolerated. Such actions or other severe violations of school rules may result In immediate expulsion, if a student persists in violating basic obligation of courtesy, consideration, respect, cooperation, or safety, a Principal, Teacher, Parent, Student conference will be scheduled. All resulting discipline, counselling, consultation and corrective action will be viewed as positive home-school efforts to help the child improve behavior. If these cooperative efforts prove ineffective, the student will be subject to expulsion or may be denied readmittance to the school.

In order to form proper habits and attitudes, the following rules of good conduct ore constantly emphasized:

4. Loving acceptance of and assistance to fellow classmates
5. Proper safety habits

6. Sense of fair play and trustworthiness

Behaviors considered totally unacceptable include:

1. Disrespect toward a Teacher, Administrator, or any School Staff member

2. Running in the school yard, classroom, halls, or stairs etc.

3. Gum chewing in the school during school hours

4. Fighting is unacceptable behavior and invites automatic suspension

5. Vandalism such as carving desks, defacing school property, writing on walls, defacing the bathrooms etc. will not be tolerated. Any student who engages in such destructive behavior will be suspended. Parents will be held legally and financially responsible.

6. Alcoholic beverages, drugs, etc. brought into the school building or on school grounds will result in suspension and /or dismissal from school.

Suspension

Repeated violations of school regulations will not be tolerated. Suspension will be used for serious and grove infractions of school policies and for undesirable behavior. Suspension may only be imposed by the School Principal, parents will be notified and the situation will be explained to them. All school work missed during a suspension will be mode up in detention classes when the suspension is lifted.

Conduct which constitutes good cause for suspension or expulsion of a student includes, but is not limited to the following:

1. Continued and willful disobedience

2. Open defiance of the authority of any Teacher, Administrator, or Staff

3. Physical assault on another student or upon any teacher or Staff member

4. Taking or attempting to take any personal property or money by means of force, fear or otherwise

5. Willfully causing or attempting to cause damage to school property

6. Truancy by a student

7. Smoking or lighting matches or fire crackers on school grounds

8. Alcoholic beverages, drugs, fire works, etc. used carried or distributed on school grounds

9. Defacing school property

Ordinarily, expulsion is employed only when all other means of discipline, including suspension, have been used and proved ineffectual. However, if, in the sole determination of the school, a student's conduct or activity reflects such grove discredit on the school or otherwise presents a definite impediment to the welfare and progress of the school community, the student may be expelled without the school's having taken prior disciplinary measures.

Detention

If it is necessary to detain your child after school, you will be notified a day in advance whenever possible or be given a phone call on the day of the detention. There will also be 7:30 a.m. detention classes when necessary.

Study Habits

1. be fully prepared for class each day

2. use only school theme tablet

3. hand in all work on time (this includes classwork, homework, projects, etc.)

4. do all work legibly and correct heading must be used on all papers.

5. be responsible for making up missed work in a reasonable amount of time

6. write in complete sentences

7. have textbooks and workbooks covered at all times.

Cafeteria

HEALTH AND NUTRITION ARE IMPORTANT PARTS OF A CHILD'S DEVELOPMENT, THEREFORE EACH CHILD IS EXPECTED TO EAT A BALANCED LUNCH.

STUDENTS SHOULD ENTER AND LEAVE THE LUNCHROOM IN AN ORDERLY FASHION.

Bathroom Rules

1. Lower grade children (Grades PK-4) will use the bathroom before lunch and also upon their return to school.

2. Upper grade children (Grades 4-8) will use the bathroom upon their return from lunch.
3. No student will be allowed to use the bathroom In the lunch room, the only exception will be a real emergency.

Lunch Room Rules

Our Teachers supervise the lunch room and we ask you as parents to teach your child proper table manners. No rudeness or disrespect will be tolerated. if your child shows disrespect it will be your responsibility to come to school and take your child home for lunch.

1. Students are to remain in their seats at all times (except to purchase food) NO RUNNING ALLOWED

2. Conversation should be in a moderate tone. NO YELLING OR LOUD TONE

3. Students may get up to get their food when their grade is called.

4. Lunch Room Patrol are to have their lunch first.

5. Garbage barrels will be taken around to collect trash. NO GARBAGE IS TO BE THROWN ACROSS THE TABLE OR ON THE FLOOR.

6. FIGHTING, SHOUTING OR THROWING FOOD WILL NOT BE TOLERATED.

Eating Rules

1. No glass bottles allowed

2. No soda is to be purchased in the Church Hall soda machine.

3. No food from the outside should be delivered to the lunch room.

4. No candy or gum allowed In the lunch room.

1. When each grade is called students are to stand and put on their coats Students are to push their chairs under the table and form a line.

2. Each grade will exit the lunch room In a quiet orderly manner; no running or pushing will be tolerated.

CHURCH Attitude

1 - A respectful attitude is expected in Church at all times.

2. Silence Is to be observed.

3. A prayerful and reverent posture should be expressed at all times.

4. Students are expected to pay attention and participate at all times.

Lavatory Rules

I. No running, fighting or fooling will be tolerated.

2. The facility should be used properly

3. NO SMOKING, EATING OR DRUGS ARE PERMITTED IN THE BATHROOM

4. The room should be kept clean at all times. Students are reminded to FLUSH.

5. Students are expected to wash their hands.

6. A Doctor's note is required If a student needs to use the lavatory frequently.

Only cupcakes will be permitted for Birthday parties. These will be distributed during recess. Teachers will not give out birthday party Invitation unless there is one for ever student. If you plan a small party, please be responsible for distributing invitations or

your own.

Safety Patrol

It is wise for parents/ guardians to know the route that Is taken by your child to and

from school. Please Insist that they cross at the proper crossing where there is a

Crossing Guard or at the light. Teach them what they are to do In the event that

someone stops them and tries to give them a ride. Teaching your child to say "NO" to

strangers Is your greatest responsibility as you well know. We will help emphasize this

and all other safety rules. I

Students who are to be picked up by car at 2:30 p.m. will be dismissed into the parking lot. We request that parents park their cars In the parking lot and not block the path of Incoming cars and students who are being dismissed. Cars are to enter the lot from Pavonia Avenue and exit Magnolia Avenue. This procedure Is also In effect in the morning when dropping children off for school. DO NOT DROP CHILDREN OFF IN THE STREET. DO NOT DROP CHILDREN OFF IN THE DRIVEWAY AND THEN BACKUP. THESE ARE ALL DANGEROUS TO YOUR CHILD AS WELL AS THE OTHER CHILDREN. ENTER FORM PAVONIA - COME ALL THE WAY INTO THE PARKING LOT- DROP THE CHILD/CHILDREN OFF - EXIT MAGNOLIA AVENUE. PLEASE WATCH YOUR SPEED AND BE CONSIDERATE OF ALL THE CHILDRENIIIIIIII

Students are to be instructed to show respect toward the Crossing Guards and School Safety monitors.

PARENTS SHOULD NOTIFY THE TEACHER IF THE CHILD IS TO BE DISMISSED TO SOMEONE OTHER THAN THE REGULAR SUPERVISORY ADULT. PLEASE EXPECT THE TEACHER TO ASK THIS PERSON TO SHOW I.D. THIS IS FOR YOUR CHILDS PROTECTION.

School Property

We try to provide a loving,warm comfortable environment for your child and consider the school a second home. Therefore, students should take a personal Interest in school property, treating It as they would their own. Pride in the classroom appearance is strongly encouraged especially in the student's own desk. The student should put his/her desk in order and see that it is cleaned out at the end of each school day.

Telephone

Students will not be allowed to use the telephone for forgotten books, papers, gym equipment etc. They will be permitted to use the phone only In case of an

emergency.

Curriculum

The non-Catholic student is most welcomed at Saint Joseph School . The non-catholic student is expected to understand and agree that the School exists to educate in the framework of Catholic values. Non-Catholic students must participate in the Religious classes and liturgical services scheduled for students during the school year.

Physical Education Requirements

All students are to participate in Physical Education class unless excused by a licensed Doctor. This written excuse is to be kept on file in the Principal's office as State low requires.

Library

Library services for all students grades PK-8 are provides by the Librarian with the aid of paraprofessional volunteers. Maximum use of all materials by both students and teachers is encouraged. A fine of .254c day will be charged for all books and materials not returned when due. Parents will be financially responsible for all books and/or materials lost, damaged, or not returned by your child.

Field Trips

On occasion, Saint Joseph School will sponsor and conduct field trips for educational enrichment of the students. Participation in field trips is a privilege. No student may participate in a field trip unless a signed parent/guardian permission slip for the

specific event is submitted to the school. This permission slip is provided by the school.

Student Council

The Student Council of Saint Joseph School alms to create harmonious relationships among the faculty, administration, student body and parish community. It helps our young people to realize the genius, dignity and worth of each individual. The Student Council encourages the highest standards of scholarship and recognizes many types of student achievement.

The goals and responsibilities of the Student Council include:

1. To create better student and faculty communication.

2. To build leadership within the student body.

3. To development citizenship and enthusiasm within the school.

4. To initiate community projects in which the students can participate.

5. Write the Student Council Constitution.

Homework

We believe that homework is essential to provide needed practice in the mastery of skills, to develop the ability to work independently, to extend the interest developed in the classroom, as well as meet varying specific needs of the individual student or the entire class.

In general, the amount of homework for each grade might Include:

Pre- Kindergarten At the Teacher's discretion

Kindergarten At the Teacher's discretion

First/second At the Teacher's discretion

Third Forty-five minutes

Fourth One hour

Fifth/Sixth One and one half hours

Seventh / Eighth Two Hours

It is the responsibility of the Parent to check the child's homework and make sure that the child/children do the homework which has been assigned. Each child must keep an assignment pad where they will record all homework assignments.

School Books

School books should be kept covered at all times, and may not be carried to and from school without a bookbag. Parents are requested to check books occasionally

for pencil marks, soiled covers, torn pages, etc. Damages or loss of books must be paid for at the end of the year.

Progress Reports

Progress reports are given to all students in grades 1-8 three times during the school year. They are given at the mid-point during each marking period. Students and parents are given advanced notification before the end of each marking period so that students have an opportunity to Improve before the end of the marking period especially if there is a danger of failing a subject.

Report Cards

Report Cards

To inform you of your child's progress in school, report cards will be distributed four times during the school year for grades 1-8 and twice for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten. Your signature on these cards does not constitute approval, it indicates that you have seen the card.

Conference days will be scheduled in the school calendar, when the teachers will be available to discuss the progress of each student. If for some serious reason you cannot offend the scheduled conference, contact must be made with the teacher in writing explaining the reason and requesting an interview with the teacher at his/her convenience. All interviews are to take place either before or after school.

Promotion/Graduation

Children who underachieve to the point that they do not grasp basic fundamentals will be retained. Parent/Teacher conferences will be set in January to discuss the possibility of retention. Parents will be notified In writing and a second interview will be held in May to finalize the decision.

Students in Grades 1-7 failing a major subject - must attend and satisfactorily complete an accredited summer session.

Blank Diplomas - High School Acceptance

Honors - Grades 4-8 only

1^st Honors

Any student who has received an A or better in all major subjects. Penmanship nor being included,

2^nd Honors

Any student who has received a B or higher in all major subjects. Penmanship not

Included.

Parent-teacher Appointments

Appointments with Teachers require a direct request to the Teacher, by note, suggesting times convenient for you, The Teacher's response will arrange a time convenient for both parties. Teachers may not be consulted during school hours, including their lunch period, PROBLEMS SHOULD BE DISCUSSED WITH THE CLASSROOM TEACHER BEFORE THE PRINCIPAL IS APPROACHED, TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE PRINCIPAL CALL THE SCHOOL OFFICE.

Parent - Teacher Organization

The Saint Joseph School Parent-Teacher Organization was brought into existence for the purpose of providing a direct communication between parent and school, to

encourage interest in the welfare of the school and to provide assistance for the administration to attain the school's goals. I

Meetings are scheduled throughout the school year and are marked on the school calendar,

During the year the Parent-Teacher Organization sponsors various fund-raising events to supplement the school budget. You are required to sell $ 120.00 In candy, etc. for the P.T.O. fund raisers or participate in a non-sale and remitt $120.00 (cash /money order) to the P.T.O. to help the school.

Parents from Pre- Kindergarten to 8 ate considered a integral part of the school community. As a result of parent interest and support, our school is a happier more productive place.

Stationery

Pupils are expected to buy paper from school, especially notebooks and theme tablets, as well as the initial school order.

After School Program

The After School Program is offered every day, from 2:30 to 5:30. All children from Saint Joseph School are eligible to attend. The program consists of supervised study, play, and activities. The After School Program is not available on half days.

Summer Program

Summer School Classes are held for any child in grades 4-8 who fail a major subject. Reading, Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science, and Religion will be offered to these students.

An Enrichment Program is offered to students in grades 1-3. Reading, Math, Language Arts, Art, Computer Class and Games Is offered to these students.

Children who are eligible for Summer Program fall Into the following categories:

1. Students who fail a major subject.

2. Students who want enrichment or are recommended by a teacher.

3. Parental request

Access to the School Building

For the purpose of safety for the children and school personnel the following security procedures will be in effect:

1. During the school day, immediately before and immediately after school, all visitors (this includes parents/ guardians) are to go directly to the second floor to the office of the Principal before proceeding to any other part of the school building.

2. Visitors will sign an admittance book indicating date, time, and the nature of the visit. Library aides will sign in when they report to the Library.

3. Admittance Into the school proper Is through the front door only. All teachers, aides, and students have been instructed not to open any door to admit any visitor. Please do not allow anyone to enter when you exit the building.

4. No one will be allowed to see a student during the school day unless we have written as well as verbal authorization from the parent/ guardian.

Change of Address or Phone Number

It is of the utmost importance that the school office be notified when there is an address or phone number change. Please send written notification of any change when It takes place.

Emergency Phone Numbers

Should there be no home phone or both parties work, we must have an emergency number to call should your child become ill or meet with an accident. A form will be sent home requesting this information. Please complete It carefully and return it promptly.

School Records

Saint Joseph School abides by the provisions of applicable low with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary and upon request, the school will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the student's essential academic records.

Court Orders

If there is a court order specifying the rights and responsibilities of individual parents, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the School with an official copy of the court order. The custodial parent may wish to supply the Principal with the "custody section" of the divorce decree if it contains information which may be useful to the school In fulfilling its obligations.

Asbestos Management

The School's Asbestos Management Plan Is on file in the school office, as required by the Federal Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). This document is available upon request.

Suspected child abuse or Neglect

New Jersey State law requires that any person who has reasonable cause to believe that a child may have been subjected to abuse or neglect, must make a report to the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services.

Crisis Intervention Policy

The Saint Joseph School Community holds a deep concern for human life. Since we believe strongly that each child Is a unique gift from God, reports on self-life endangerment will be treated with the utmost seriousness.

We recognize that all members of the school community share responsibility for the

well-being of the student. A potential suicide situation shall be immediately reported to-** Principal and School Nurse who will promptly interview the child In distress Based on this Interview, the family may be contacted immediately. From the time of this Interview until the child Is placed In parental care, or until the Interview Indicates other than a potential suicide situation, the child will not be left unattended.

All information concerning this case will be kept confidential. Re-entry to class and other school activities will be determined by the appropriate medical documentation and administration authorization.

Auxiliary Services

The State of New Jersey is required by law to provide auxiliary services to pupils enrolled in non-public schools. The students in Saint Joseph School who quality receive the following services:

1. Corrective Speech

2. Compensatory Education (Preventive and remedial programs in both Math and Reading skills).

3. English as a Second Language (for acquiring communication proficiency in the English Language).

4. Supplementary Instruction (instruction provided for 0 student classified as learning challenged.

5. Chapter I Computer Class (Preventive and remedial program).

Suggestions

In the publication of the handbook, it is hoped that you have been presented with the information about our school that you would like to have. We also hope that a better understanding of the legalities and operations necessary to run an effective well organized school have been clarified for you. If you feel there are some items that should be added to future handbooks feel free to contact the Principal.

Computer Use Policy

Students are not allowed to enter CHAT ROOMS, BULLETIN BOARDS, NOR SEARCH E-MAIL via the computer. This policy is necessary in order to prevent students from viewing any objectionable material. Access to the Internet will be under direct teacher's supervision.

Any student who misuses the computer by either harming the machine or printing objectionable material will be removed from computer class for a period determined by the principal.